Self-Directed Support...where do I start?

MCLF

Hi,
I've been spending the last few hours trying to find out whether my husband would be eligible for Self-Directed Support.

He needs help with things such as washing and dressing, needs meals cooked for him etc. He also can't leave the house without someone with him.
He's fully mentally alert but I have noticed significant changes in him since his condition became worse and he often needs reminding to take his medication, even though I put tablets out in a pill dispenser for him, and the rest next to him.
I've also been told by his medical team he shouldn't be left alone at home.

I also have a chronic health problem. I find that by the time I've looked after my husband (even with rests inbetween) I'm too exhausted to do much else.

It's also tiring outside, as I have to push his wheelchair and he is much bigger than I am. Anything other than a supermarket floor is a real struggle.

He gets HR Mobility DLA which he uses for a car - before getting this he was housebound.
He also gets MR Care DLA. The reason he doesn't get HR is because he usually sleeps through most nights, without any help or monitoring.
Sometimes he needs help and I do have broken nights when I need to check on him regularly. But these are in the minority.

So I'm wondering if it's worth him applying for Self-Directed Support?

morledge142

go through social services adn they will do an assessment of his care needs.

then if he is deemed to need it they will give an allowance and you can sort out either your own pa/support worker or use an agency.
there is also am agency who deals with organsiing the paperwork for wages so you jsut sign cheques everyweek.
you all need to send details off to council every 3 months to show what has bee paid to the carer.

so start with social services as differnt areas may be different. budgets etc.

Savvy_Sue

You could also ask SS for a Carers Assessment of YOUR needs.

skater_kat

google 'FACS'

there will be a finanical assessment to see if he should contribute to the cost of support. if there is High rate of dla this unfortunately may mean you may not get anything for free from social services. worth having a read.

http://www.in-control.org.uk/support/support-for-individuals,-family-members-carers/what-is-self-directed-support.aspx

HTH